Knowledge Base Article

Q:

What is the “Approach” for a needle aspiration of Bone Marrow from a lumbar vertebra when performed during an open lumbar spinal fusion?

A:

The operative “Approach” for needle aspiration of Bone Marrow would be assigned to “Open”.  This would not be considered a “Percutaneous” approach because the aspiration did not cut through the skin.  The code assigned would be 07DS0ZZ, Extraction of Vertebral Bone Marrow, Open Approach

In addition, needle aspiration of bone marrow from the iliac crest is commonly performed during spinal fusions and would be assigned to 07DR0ZZ, Extraction of Iliac Bone Marrow, Open Approach.  This would be reported once even if performed bilaterally.  

Resources:

Coding Clinic, Third Quarter 2016, page 41

Coding Tip: Biopsy Coding in PCS When Fluid is Aspirated; Kim Carrier, Health Information Associates